The Indian cricket team held an optional practice session on Tuesday, September 9, ahead of their Asia Cup 2025 opener against the UAE. Players Sanju Samson and Jasprit Bumrah skipped the session, while Abhishek Sharma and vice-captain Shubman Gill impressed with their batting performances in the nets.
The management and head coach Gautam Gambhir will have to make a key selection decision regarding the wicket-keeper in the playing XI. Sanju Samson is in a challenging position after Shubman Gill was appointed vice-captain of the T20I side. Gill is most likely to be included in India’s first match as an opener.
Jasprit Bumrah and Sanju Samson Skip India’s Optional Practice Session
According to a report by PTI, senior players Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson, and Harshit Rana decided to take a break during India’s optional training session at the ICC Academy.
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As it was an optional session, their absence did not raise concerns. However, Sanju Samson’s absence drew attention, as he was not involved much with the main group of batters during practice.
Samson has been India’s T20I opener for the past year, but he is at risk of being sidelined. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) cricketer Jitesh Sharma is the likely option to keep wickets and bat as a finisher in the lower-middle order. Sharma impressed with his batting performances in the IPL 2025.
Abhishek Sharma Steals the Show with Spectacular Net Session
Young left-hander Abhishek Sharma was present during Tuesday’s practice session. Sharma showcased exceptional hand-eye coordination, sending deliveries soaring far beyond the nets.
Abhishek transformed the practice nets into a “range-hitting” exhibition, clearing at least 25 to 30 sixes. Shubman Gill also looked in excellent touch during the session, elegantly playing quick bowlers through extra cover and displaying his trademark grace and timing.
However, a fast delivery from a local net bowler breached Gill’s defence and uprooted the off-stump. The report added that it was the only blemish in an otherwise polished batting session.
Team India to Begin Asia Cup 2025 Campaign on September 10
Sanju Samson has been an opening batter since the 2024 T20 World Cup, forming a destructive partnership with Abhishek Sharma. Samson has scored three centuries in his last 12 T20Is, averaging 37.90 with a strike rate of 183.70.
Overall, Samson has scored 522 runs in 17 innings as an opener in T20Is, averaging 32.63 with a strike rate of 178.77. He performed well in series against Bangladesh, England, and South Africa.
Earlier in his career, Samson had limited success when given occasional opportunities at the top of the order. His record in the middle order is disappointing, with 93 runs in seven innings at an average of 18.6 while batting at No. 5 or below.
India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, have been placed in Group A alongside UAE, Oman, and Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2025. The Men in Blue will begin their campaign with a group-stage match against the UAE at the Dubai International Stadium on Wednesday, September 10.
